Greetings, friends of FoodieFront, and welcome back to another exciting voyage into the world of delicious foods! We’re exploring the delightful realm of Italian cooking today, starting with the renowned lasagna of Lidia Bastianich. This famous dish is a celebration of flavors, textures, and the art of gathering loved ones around a table, not just a meal.
Lidia Bastianich, a famous chef, restaurateur, and television personality, has generously shared her favorite lasagna recipe, and we’re here to take you through every step. Prepare yourself for a mouthwatering journey that will leave your taste senses humming!
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INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 pound of sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (16 ounces) lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
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Brown the sausage and ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. When the onions are transparent, add the chopped onion and garlic and simmer.
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Add the tomato paste, water, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper after the tomatoes have been smashed. Allow the flavors to combine by simmering the sauce for around half an hour.
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Beat the eggs with the ricotta cheese in a bowl. Blend thoroughly by mixing.
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Turn the oven on to 375°F, or 190°C.
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Cover the bottom of a large baking dish with the beef sauce. Layers of lasagna noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese should be layered on top. Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, culminating with a layer of cheese on top.
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Bake the baking dish for twenty-five minutes with the foil covering it. After that, bake the cheese for a further 25 to 30 minutes, or until it is bubbling and brown.
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Before slicing, let the lasagna rest for fifteen minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Lidia Bastianich Lasagna
Discover the enchantment of Lidia Bastianich's Lasagna—a harmonious blend of tastes that surpasses simple instructions. Every mouthful reflects coziness and customs, from creamy cheeses to deeply colored tomato layers. Take your culinary explorations to the next level with this ageless Italian classic that is sure to make treasured memories.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing Bowls
- Wooden spoon:
- Large baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 pound of sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (16 ounces) lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the sausage and ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. When the onions are transparent, add the chopped onion and garlic and simmer.
- Add the tomato paste, water, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper after the tomatoes have been smashed. Allow the flavors to combine by simmering the sauce for around half an hour.
- Beat the eggs with the ricotta cheese in a bowl. Blend thoroughly by mixing.
- Turn the oven on to 375°F, or 190°C.
- Cover the bottom of a large baking dish with the beef sauce. Layers of lasagna noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese should be layered on top. Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, culminating with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake the baking dish for twenty-five minutes with the foil covering it. After that, bake the cheese for a further 25 to 30 minutes, or until it is bubbling and brown.
- Before slicing, let the lasagna rest for fifteen minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Video
Notes
Pro Tip:
You may want to prepare the lasagna the day before and refrigerate it overnight to bring out the flavors. This enables the flavors to combine and create a dish that is even more delicious when reheated.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Q: Why should I try Lidia Bastianich’s lasagna recipe?
A well-known Italian cook, Lidia Bastianich, created a classic lasagna dish that embodies true Italian flavors. This recipe is filling and substantial, making it ideal for entertaining or a special family supper.
2. Q: Can I make any substitutions in the ingredients?
A: Definitely! The key to cooking is personal preference. To accommodate dietary needs, you can experiment with different cheeses, substitute ground turkey for beef, or even try gluten-free pasta.
3. Q: Is it necessary to let the lasagna rest before serving?
A: Yes, letting the lasagna cool for fifteen minutes or so after baking facilitates layer settling and facilitates cutting. It also improves the tastes as the dish continues to set.
4. Q: Can I prepare Lidia Bastianich’s lasagna in advance?
A: Indeed, lasagna makes a fantastic leftover dish. To let the flavors mingle, you can put it together and refrigerate it for the entire night. When you’re ready to serve, bake it.
5. Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Definitely! Lasagna freezes well. Just make sure that before freezing, you cover everything tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Prior to reheating, let it defrost in the fridge.
6. Q: How long does it take to cook Lidia Bastianich’s lasagna?
A: Between 95 and 105 minutes are needed for cooking in total, including baking and preparation. The dinner is flavorful and filling, so the wait is worthwhile.
7. Q: Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?
A: You can use no-boil lasagna noodles in their place. To guarantee that the noodles cook through, make necessary adjustments to the stacking and use an adequate amount of sauce.
8. Q: Are there any tips for making the lasagna even more flavorful?
A: The flavor of Lidia’s lasagna is already very strong, but you can make it even better by incorporating fresh herbs into the ricotta mixture, such as parsley or basil. Additionally, for a more decadent flavor, think about utilizing premium cheeses.
9. Q: How many servings does the recipe yield?
A: About 8 servings are usually produced from this recipe. Depending on the size of your party or your demands, change the amounts.
Nutrition Fact –
Approximate Nutrition per Serving (assuming 8 servings):
Calories: 600-800 kcal
Protein: 30-40g
Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Dietary Fiber: 3-5g
Sugars: 6-8g
Fat: 35-45g
Saturated Fat: 18-25g
Cholesterol: 130-150mg
Sodium: 900-1200mg
